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Drop #4: San Carlos Double-fermented Washed Chiroso
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Drop #4: San Carlos Double-fermented Washed Chiroso

$13.00

The San Carlos project by Forest Coffee has helped incubate the careers of some exceptional producers in recent times, such as rising stars Carmen Montoya and Santiago Caro. By blending neighbor farms' Chiroso lots -- and then processing the combined lot together -- newer and/or younger producers have a way to sell their coffee. This lot often features producers looking to move into specialty coffee that either lack the starting resources or coffee lot sizes to sell their lots on their own. In this cup, we notice a strong sweetness that reminded us of maple syrup, flavors of nutella and coconut, and a more subtle acid most similar to pomegranate.

Follow the Drop 4 Roast Experiment here.

Drop #4 launched on Instagram (@basecoatcoffee) November 14th!

Farm and Producer

Similar to the Black Condor Project, the Chiroso de San Carlos Project from Forest Coffee is about supporting hardworking farmers of Urrao, Antioquia growing the Chiroso variety. Every harvest, this project brings together 10 producers at a time, teaching them new processing techniques to improve quality and helping Urrao gain recognition in the world of specialty coffee.

Since 2023, this project has helped incubate careers for specialty coffee producer superstars, like Carmen Montoya and Santiago Caro. Over time, the project has grown to support more hands-on workshops to master various processing methods. Beyond just improving producers' practices and education, Forest Coffee is ensuring that farmers are paid fairly and that each batch is traceable.

Coffee Varietal and Processing

This chiroso lot is fermented 12 hours aerobically (open containers) before being de-pulped and then fermented again in a sealed plastic tank for another 36 hours. Finally, the coffee is washed and patio sun-dried for 12 to 16 days, depending on weather.

We're excited about this coffee because we feel we're supporting the future of specialty coffee producers careers in the Urrao community. Plus, we're getting to contribute to their economic growth early on. Most of these farms are small -- about 1.5 hectares, so combining lots helps create a better sales channel and opportunity for these producers.

Cost Transparency

We got to taste this in a group cupping with the Forest Coffee U.S. sales team. We have loved working with and getting to know Ronaldo, former US sales rep at Forest. He had roasted this sample when we cupped it on the table and it was a really clean and pretty representation of the coffee. This sold us.

Green cost: $15.46/kg ($1.32/kg tariff)
Package and roasting costs: $2.31/bag; $10/kg
Profile and sample use: ~1.6kg
Approx. Margin: 43.49%

Brewing and Resting Recommendation

The light-medium roast lends itself well to filter and standard espresso brew methods. We like the nordic roast solely as pourover and "soup".

(Our standard recipe)
Temperature range: 200-204°F
Water: Tap/Demineralized and Third Wave Water Light Roast
Grind Settings: Medium Coarse (600-650µm)
Target Drawdown Time: 2:35-2:55

4 Pour Recipe:
1/4 water every 30 seconds. Swirl dripper on first and third pours.

Drop Variants

Drops are typically prepared in two formats: a standard 100g / 200g bag offering at your preferred roast level or as a roast experiment.

  • Standard bag lets you support the producer, exporter, and the project without having to buy and drink coffee you're less interested in. You still get to observe and critique our roast methods at your preferred lightness but in larger quantities.
  • Roast experiment lets you participate in 3 blind tastings of 60g bags to evaluate 3 different roast curves. After the drops have been released, profile info and our own sensory feedback will be shared alongside any collected feedback from tasters.

Note that roast level selection does not apply to experiments sent out.

When will I get my order?

We work as quickly as possible to roast and ship your coffee within a week of your order placement. Times vary on roaster rental availability and our limited roasting schedule. We typically roast on two subsequent days twice a month. Once your order has shipped, you will receive an email with further information. Delivery times vary on location.

Return policy

Because we are selling an agricultural product with limited shelf life, we do not accept returns. However, our goal is for every customer to be absolutely satisfied with their purchase. If you aren't enjoying the experience, let us know in an Instagram DM and we'll do our best to work with you to make it right!

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